Asics Nova Blast 5 Review: The Ultimate Daily Training Companion

TL;DR: The Asics Nova Blast 5 is that reliable friend who never lets you down—comfortable enough for your longest runs, responsive enough to keep things interesting, and durable enough to handle whatever you throw at it. If you want a no-nonsense daily trainer that makes every run feel effortless, this might be your perfect match.

The Bottom Line Up Front

The Nova Blast 5 is Asics' answer to runners who need one shoe that can handle everything. While other brands chase the latest trends, Asics perfected the art of building a dependable workhorse that actually makes running more enjoyable. The result? A shoe that's forgiving enough for beginners but reliable enough for seasoned runners logging serious miles.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Key Specifications

Weight: 9.2 oz (men's size 9) / 7.8 oz (women's size 7)
Drop: 8mm (32mm heel, 24mm forefoot)
Midsole: FF BLAST+ foam
Upper: Engineered mesh with recycled materials
Outsole: AHAR+ rubber compound
Price Range: $120-140 USD
Best For: Daily training, easy runs, long runs, neutral runners

What Makes This Shoe a Total Winner

The Midsole That Gets It Right ✨

Let's cut to the chase—the ride is everything. The FF BLAST+ foam delivers that perfect sweet spot between cushioned comfort and responsive energy return. At 32mm heel / 24mm forefoot with an 8mm drop, you get substantial protection without feeling disconnected from the ground.

Unlike some cushioned trainers that feel mushy or unstable, the Nova Blast 5 maintains a lively feel that keeps you engaged with every step. The foam responds beautifully whether you're shuffling through an easy run or picking up the pace for some moderate tempo work.

Weight That Works

At 9.2 oz (men's size 9) and 7.8 oz (women's size 7), this shoe feels surprisingly nimble for the amount of cushioning it provides. Asics managed to pack in serious comfort without the clunky feeling that plagues some daily trainers.

The Comfort Revolution

The engineered mesh upper with recycled materials is breathable without being flimsy. The fit runs true to size with enough toe box room to keep your feet happy during long runs, while the heel counter provides secure lockdown without feeling restrictive.

The overall construction strikes that perfect balance—supportive where you need it, flexible where it counts. Plus, the sustainability angle shows Asics is thinking beyond just performance.

The Honest Truth About Performance

Where It Absolutely Kills It 🔥

Daily training runs: This is where the Nova Blast 5 becomes indispensable. Those bread-and-butter miles that make up 80% of your training? These shoes turn them into a pleasure cruise. The FF BLAST+ foam provides just enough bounce to keep things interesting without feeling unstable.

Long run hero: The comfort level remains consistent even when you're pushing into higher mileage territory. The combination of cushioning and durability means your feet stay happy while the shoe keeps performing.

Versatility champion: Unlike some trainers that only work at one pace, the Nova Blast 5 adapts beautifully. Recovery runs feel cushioned and comfortable, while moderate efforts remain responsive and controlled.

Durability beast: The AHAR+ rubber outsole is built to last. Expect 400-500 miles of reliable performance, making this an excellent value proposition for high-mileage runners.

The Real Talk

Not for speed demons: If you're chasing PRs in your 5K, there are faster options. The Nova Blast 5 prioritizes comfort and reliability over pure speed.

Stability seekers look elsewhere: This is a neutral shoe through and through. If you need motion control or stability features for overpronation, you'll need to consider other options.

Price consideration: At $120-140 USD, it's not the cheapest option, but the durability and performance make it competitive in the daily trainer category.

Who This Shoe Is Perfect For

✅ Beginner runners who need a forgiving, comfortable platform for building mileage
✅ Daily training warriors who want one reliable shoe for most of their runs
✅ High-mileage runners seeking maximum comfort and durability
✅ Neutral runners with efficient biomechanics who don't need corrective features
✅ Value seekers who want serious performance without breaking the bank

Who Should Look Elsewhere

❌ Speed focused athletes looking for racing flats or uptempo trainers
❌ Stability dependent runners who need motion control features
❌ Minimalist enthusiasts who prefer low-drop, ground-feel shoes
❌ Very wide or narrow feet (though the mesh upper provides some accommodation)

The Comparison Game

vs. Nike Pegasus 41: Nova Blast 5 offers better cushioning and durability, Pegasus wins on versatility
vs. Brooks Ghost 16: Similar comfort level, but Nova Blast 5 feels more responsive
vs. Hoka Clifton 10: Nova Blast 5 provides better durability and ground connection
vs. Saucony Ride 18: Very similar mission, but Nova Blast 5 offers superior foam technology

The Verdict

The Nova Blast 5 represents everything great about a well-executed daily trainer. Asics didn't try to reinvent the wheel—they just made it roll better. This isn't the flashiest shoe on the market, but it's the one that'll be there for you day after day, mile after mile.

If you're ready to experience what "reliable comfort" actually feels like while still maintaining your training goals, the Nova Blast 5 delivers. It's comfortable enough for your longest runs, responsive enough for everyday training, and durable enough to be your go-to shoe for months to come.

Final Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Runner's Real Talk

As someone who tests a lot of daily trainers, the Nova Blast 5 impressed me with its consistency. While it doesn't have the flashy marketing of some competitors, it simply works. The foam feels dialed-in from day one, the fit accommodates most foot shapes comfortably, and the durability is genuinely impressive. This is the shoe you reach for when you just want to run without thinking about your feet. Sometimes the best technology is the kind you don't notice—and that's exactly what Asics achieved here.

The Nova Blast 5 is available now for $120-140 USD at asics.com and major running retailers.